The mosquito that carries dengue and chikungunya fever has already settled in Italy (3 photos)

Italy has reported its first local cases of dengue and chikungunya, two mosquito-borne diseases commonly found in tropical countries such as South America and India.





According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, the number of dengue fever cases worldwide has increased sharply. In 2024, the figure reached a record high of 14 million cases.

In June of this year, tourists in Australia received a warning. All because of an outbreak of the disease in the Cook Islands, where 19 cases of infection were registered.

Cases have also increased in Samoa, Tonga, French Polynesia, Fiji and Kiribati.



Italy reported its first locally acquired dengue case of the year this summer in Emilia-Romagna. Several other regions have reported 82 imported cases. Health officials also reported the first locally acquired chikungunya case of the year, which was again detected in Emilia-Romagna.

Tourists planning a trip to France have been warned of the risk of contracting chikungunya. The country has recorded eight cases. This year's outbreak began earlier than usual. This may indicate that mosquitoes, which carry the virus, are increasingly appearing in France due to climate change.



The virus is not fatal, but can cause serious consequences. The main symptoms are a sharp rise in temperature and severe joint pain. Other common symptoms include muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue, and rash. The acute phase of the disease usually passes within a week or two. However, some people may experience joint pain for weeks, months, or even years.

Meanwhile, dengue fever manifests itself with flu-like symptoms, such as headache, fever, and joint pain. In some cases, the infection can develop into a severe form that is life-threatening. It causes internal bleeding, organ damage and even death.

Vacationers are strongly advised to seek immediate medical attention if they suspect they have been bitten by a mosquito.